This Texas city is among the ‘coziest’ in U.S., study finds

Video above: KXAN meteorologist Rich Segal talks to Climate Central’s Shel Winkley about warming temperatures across the U.S. and Texas.

(NEXSTAR) — There’s just over a week left of summer on the calendar, and even though Texas heat doesn’t exactly disappear once it’s no longer summer, it’s never too early to get into the autumn mood.

And while Texas might not be the first state you think of when you think about cozy autumnal vibes, one Texas city recently received a national nod for its fall coziness.

Recently, BetMGM Casino evaluated 18 cities that are already popular for fall experiences — as named by Travel + Leisure — and then measured those cities to find the “fall-est” of all among them. Cities were ranked based on a variety of factors, including farmers markets/pumpkin patches, fall foliage color, rain and temperatures.

While no Texas cities made the top 10 of Coziest Cities for Fall 2024, the world-famous Texas landmark of San Antonio placed at no. 14 nationally.

Though coming in far below the no. 1 most “fall” city (Portland, Maine), San Antonio received an overall fall coziness score of 48. Accounting for its score were its lower average rainfall during fall, in addition to its average fall temperature (70°).

Last year, Travel + Leisure also named San Antonio its 14th Best Cities for Fall Travel. Among the city’s biggest fall draws are its Oktoberfest on the River Walk, spooky and fun Día de Los Muertos celebrations, and the Tasting Texas Wine and Food Festival.

When it comes to fall foliage, one place near San Antonio that you’ll find come up a lot is Lost Maples State Natural Area. Located in Vanderpool, about two hours from San Antonio, the park offers about 3,000 acres of natural beauty.

Lost Maples is a popular fall destination for its fall colors.

Last year, Southern Living highlighted Lost Maples’ festive autumn views, with writer Kaitlyn Yarborough saying: “Each year, once the leaves have already changed and dropped to the ground in heaps throughout most of North America, the park’s famed bigtooth maples begin their show. Bursting into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow during late October and November, they descend upon their hot, dry surroundings like a seasonal miracle.”